Iran Earned Billions of Dollars Despite Blockade

Iran claims oil revenues of $18 billion since the start of military operations on February 28, despite the US naval blockade. Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad reported that $11.5 billion was earned during active combat and $6.5 billion during the ceasefire. The US insists on the blockade's effectiveness, citing data on ship interceptions. Experts note that the statements do not necessarily contradict each other.

Iran has announced impressive financial successes despite the ongoing naval isolation. According to Iranian authorities, oil exports have brought the country $18 billion since the start of military operations on February 28. Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad stated that $11.5 billion was earned during the active combat phase, and $6.5 billion came in during the ceasefire period from April 7 to July 10. These revenues already cover over 60% of the planned annual budget revenues. However, Iran has not disclosed details of the deals: buyers' names, logistics routes, and payment mechanisms remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, the US Central Command insists that the naval blockade is fully effective. According to US data, as of late July, US naval forces turned away 12 commercial vessels attempting to breach restrictions; disabled 2 ships for ignoring orders; inspected the tanker 'Charminar' under the Comoros flag; and detained the tanker 'Lavin' under the Mozambique flag after repeated attempts to break the cordon. Experts note that the statements do not necessarily contradict each other. Iranian reports cover total revenue over a long period, while the US records current operational actions. Without independent supply chain analysis, it is not yet possible to determine the actual trade volumes.